What to Do If Your Watch Stops Working?
What to Do If Your Watch Stops Working15/22
Few things are more frustrating than looking down at your wrist and realizing your watch has stopped. The good news? In most cases, the issue is simple — and completely fixable. Whether you own a quartz or mechanical timepiece, understanding the likely causes can help you act quickly and avoid unnecessary damage.
This guide explains the most common reasons a watch stops working, what you can safely do yourself, and when it’s time to seek professional help.
Step One: Identify Your Watch Type
Before troubleshooting, determine which type of movement your watch uses:
Quartz – battery-powered
Automatic – powered by wrist movement
Manual – wound by hand
Each behaves differently when it stops, and each requires a different solution.
If You Own a Quartz Watch
The Most Common Cause: A Dead Battery
In most cases, a quartz watch stops simply because the battery has run out. This is normal and expected.
Common signs include:
The second hand stops completely
The second hand jumps in intervals
Time becomes inconsistent
What to do:
Have the battery replaced by a professional to avoid damaging seals or internal components.
Tip: Never leave a dead battery inside a watch — it can leak and permanently damage the movement.
If You Own an Automatic or Manual Watch
It May Simply Need Power
Mechanical watches stop when they run out of stored energy.
Try this:
Gently wind the crown 20–30 turns
Wear the watch for several hours
Observe whether it resumes normal operation
If it runs normally afterward, there’s no issue — it simply wasn’t being worn.
Power Reserve Matters
Most automatic watches have a power reserve between 38 and 72 hours. If you rotate between multiple watches, it’s normal for one to stop when left unworn.
A stopped watch doesn’t mean it’s broken — it often just needs motion.
External Factors That Can Stop a Watch
Magnetism
Modern life exposes watches to magnetic fields more than ever. Phones, laptops, speakers, and magnetic clasps can all affect accuracy or cause a watch to stop.
Symptoms include:
Running too fast or too slow
Irregular ticking
Sudden stoppage
A professional can demagnetize a watch quickly and safely.
Shock or Impact
Even a minor knock can disrupt delicate internal components.
If your watch stopped after being dropped or hit, avoid winding or shaking it. Have it inspected to prevent further damage.
Water Exposure
Water intrusion is a serious issue.
Warning signs include:
Fog under the crystal
Moisture droplets
Corrosion or discoloration
If this happens, stop using the watch and seek professional service immediately. Delaying can cause permanent damage.
What You Should Avoid Doing
To prevent further issues, avoid:
Forcing the crown
Opening the case yourself
Shaking the watch aggressively
Using household tools or chemicals
Attempting DIY repairs
Modern watches are precise instruments and should only be serviced by trained professionals.
When to Get Your Watch Serviced
You should consider professional servicing if:
The watch won’t restart after winding or battery replacement
Timekeeping becomes unreliable
Moisture is visible
The watch hasn’t been serviced in several years
General service guidelines:
Mechanical watches: every 4–6 years
Quartz watches: battery replacement as needed, full service every 5–7 years
Routine servicing helps preserve accuracy, performance, and long-term value.
A Note on Long-Term Care
A well-maintained watch can last decades — even generations. Most issues don’t happen suddenly; they develop gradually when maintenance is ignored.
Understanding how your watch works is one of the best ways to protect it.
Final Thoughts
If your watch stops working, there’s no need to panic. In most cases, the solution is simple and affordable. By identifying the cause early and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your timepiece running smoothly for years to come.
At Watchstreet, we believe informed owners make better decisions. That’s why we focus on education, transparency, and careful curation — so you can enjoy your watch with confidence, every day.